I could do nothing about the search today, however. I’d have to leave it to Cynthia and Mr. Thanos, Daniel and Mr. Fielding, Bessie and James. Tess was out, so I had to do double the work, which I did without grudging, as Tess worked hard to let me have my day and a half out every week.

Tess returned later that evening, her good spirits in place. Her brother was doing well, she was happy to report, and this week she’d saved a few extra pence to give him. Tess’s wages were meager, but she was a generous young woman, happy to share them.

The next day was Sunday, and we were run off our feet cooking a large meal for Mrs. Bywater and her guests. Lady Cynthia slipped out after luncheon and returned late. She’d spent the day with Bobby, she told me, but there’d been no sign of Miss Townsend. Even Bobby was growing worried.

I tucked these facts into the back of my mind, as I continued to work and went wearily to bed, dropping off as soon as I pulled up the covers.

On Monday, I planned to take part of my afternoon out and visit Bobby to quiz her about where Miss Townsend liked to do her painting. I could have a look around for her before I went to see Grace. I kept in mind that Cynthia had said Miss Townsend would not be pleased to be interrupted if she was working, but I’d only peek in to reassure myself she was well.

Before I could leave that afternoon, however, Daniel came into the kitchen at a fast pace, the draft of the door gusting cold wind through the scullery.

“Come with us, Kat. Please. I need you.”

Daniel never stormed in, especially not during the day when Elsie, Charlie, and Tess were in the kitchen, Mr. Davis pausing to glare at him. And he never called me Kat in front of the others.

“Good heavens. Whatever is the matter?”

Daniel’s clothes were windblown, his eyes wide with pleading. “I have my brother in a coach, the coachman charged with not letting him out. I told him it would take only a few seconds to bring you. We must go.”

“I haven’t changed my frock.” I wore my gray working dress, my cook’s cap still pinned to my hair.

“No time, I’m afraid. Cover up with your coat—no one will mind. Please come.”

Never had Daniel spoken to me like this, his urgency clear. He moved in impatience while I debated.

“Very well.” I plucked off my cap and apron and snatched my coat from a hook.

I did not insist on an explanation as Daniel dashed up the stairs, me close behind him. I knew he’d never stop to tell me.